Impressive Outcomes:

Dramatic increase in graduation/transfer rates: from 15% to 32% over a five year period

Five years after graduating, Odessa students earn more than double the wages of all other workers in the region

Odessa College

Location: Odessa, TX Number of Students: 7,255 Urban

Located in West Texas, Odessa College serves a diverse region that historically has had low levels of educational attainment. Despite its isolation and challenging economic context, Odessa has developed a culture in which student outcomes – notably, completion and preparation for good, available jobs – drive important decisions, from hiring faculty and staff to crafting professional development opportunities to setting budget priorities. This student-centered approach is reflected in an aggressive reform agenda including changes in the core academic schedule and an overhaul in advising practices.